When it comes to your website, it’s important to keep it fresh and updated. A stale website not only turns off prospects, but it also doesn’t compete well in Google searches. However, making uninformed changes to your website can be just as bad.
Key questions to ask yourself before making changes to your website
Before you start making any changes to your website, take a step back and ask yourself some key questions. By doing so, you can ensure that your changes are well-informed and effective in meeting the needs of your visitors.
Why do visitors come to this page?
Each page of your website serves a specific purpose. Whether it’s to educate visitors about your company’s history or to encourage them to purchase your products or services, each page should have a clear objective. Understanding why visitors are coming to a particular page will help you keep their goals in mind as you’re making changes.
Will this new element I’m adding interfere with visitors’ intentions?
Adding new elements to your website can be a great way to keep it fresh and engaging. However, it’s important to consider whether these new elements will interfere with visitors’ intentions. For example, adding a pop-up ad or video may be distracting to visitors who are trying to navigate your website to find information or complete a task. Make sure any new elements you add don’t get in the way of visitors’ goals.
Is it easy to read and navigate?
If the design elements on the page are competing with the new element, your message may get lost. Additionally, if it’s not clear how to purchase your product or get started with your services, prospects won’t bother to do either. You should always make sure your website is easy to read and navigate so visitors can easily find what they’re looking for.
Is the message coming through?
Every word on your website should be written with care. When making changes, make sure you’re answering visitors’ questions with simple and accurate information. If the message isn’t coming through clearly, visitors may get frustrated and leave your site.
Is this new element distracting?
Go back to question one above and remember your visitors’ goal on each page. Now, ask whether they will be distracted from that goal by your new element. They won’t convert to a sale if they get lost along the way.
Conclusion
In summary, keeping your website fresh is crucial for staying relevant and competitive in today’s digital world. However, making uninformed changes can do more harm than good. By asking yourself the right questions before making any changes, such as understanding why visitors come to a page and whether new elements will interfere with their intentions, you can make informed decisions that improve your website’s effectiveness.
Ultimately, your website should be designed with your visitors’ goals and needs in mind. By making it easy to read and navigate, ensuring your message is clear and accurate, and avoiding distractions that take visitors away from their goals, you can create a website that not only looks great but also helps you achieve your business objectives. So take the time to evaluate your website regularly, keep it fresh, and make changes strategically, and you’ll be well on your way to online success.
